All gardens that have been landscaped with a little bit of thought and care will look beautiful. But it’s also true that there are some gardens that are simply a cut above the rest. And many of them are in the UK. As you may know, our humble land is world-renowned for having some of the most beautiful gardens found anywhere in the world. And the best part? There are many British gardens open to public, which means you have the opportunity to see the majesty and intricate details of the gardens first-hand.
If you’re looking for something fun to do on one of your free weekends, then consider paying a trip to one of the gardens that we’ve outlined below.
Blenheim Palace, Oxfordshire
If you’re hoping to see a beautiful garden and get some solid exercise under your belt, then you might want to consider visiting Blenheim Palace, which covers an area of more than 2,000 acres in Oxfordshire. It’s not just the scale of the beauty that people love about this garden. It is known for having one of the most beautiful views in all of England, which is high praise indeed. There’s plenty to enjoy here, with many different features, including a miniature train ride, an exquisite rose garden, water terraces, a giant maze, and a butterfly house. Everything you could hope for and more! https://www.blenheimpalace.com/
Cambridge University Botanic Garden, Cambridge
Many of the UK’s best public gardens have a long and glorious history, but few are on the level of the Cambridge University Botanic Gardens. It was opened way back in 1846 by John Henslow, who holds the distinction of being the mentor to no one other than Charles Darwin. So if there was a guy who knew his nature, then it’s him. There you’ll find more than eight thousand plants from all over the world. You can visit all year round, too, making it one of the few gardens that can be enjoyed equally regardless of the season. https://www.botanic.cam.ac.uk/
Royal Botanic Gardens, London
You’ll have heard of the Royal Botanic Gardens, which are more commonly known as Kew Gardens. It’s arguably the most famous garden in not only the UK, but the world! It was created way back in 1759 and has plenty of features that make it worthwhile visiting. There are landscapes galore, buildings with more history than you can shake a stick at, and some of the rarest plants found anywhere on earth. If you don’t feel like walking, then jump on the train and take the extremely pleasant forty-minute tour. These gardens are a must-visit if you have even the slightest interest in botanical gardens. https://www.kew.org/
Stowe, Buckinghamshire
If there’s one garden that captures all there is to love about the great English garden, then it’s Stowe. It’s idyllic in virtually every way, and has the history to prove it. People have been visiting this lovely corner of the UK for more than three hundred years. While visiting you’ll be treated to expert gardens, lakes, temples, and oh so much more. It’s the ideal place to enjoy a summer’s afternoon, either by yourself or with your loved ones in tow. It’s also great for engaging in a spot of exercise, as there’s a pleasant cycle path to enjoy. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/oxfordshire-buckinghamshire-berkshire/stowe
Mottisfont, Hampshire
There’s much to love about Mottisfont in Hampshire. There’s the eighteenth century house, for starters, which will have you getting nostalgic for days gone by. And then there are the old-fashioned roses, which come into bloom each June. There aren’t too many places where you can see the roses, but you can at Mottisfont! Not that you necessarily need to inspect the features too closely to enjoy Mottisfont. There is plenty of lawn space where you can unwind with your family on sunny days. https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/hampshire/mottisfont
Hidcote, Gloucestershire
If you live close to the Cotswolds, then consider paying a visit to Hidcote, a truly fantastic garden that was created by Major Lawrence Johnston. The garden has been divided into different ‘rooms,’ all of which have a different theme. There are plants from all over the world, which were picked by Johnston on his personal travels across the globe. If you’re looking to see just how magnificent a garden can be, then this is the place to find inspiration. Who knows, you might just return to your home and decide that you want to elevate your garden. You won’t quite be able to match the lofty standards that you’ll see at Hidcote, but it’s worth giving it a try! https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/visit/gloucestershire-cotswolds/hidcote